Monday, March 23, 2009

Photographing your Baby

I have always wanted to be a great photographer.
I took classes in High School, which didn't help;
One, because I slept during the lectures and two because I always procrastinated taking my assignment pictures.

If I could go back in time, I would listen to every word Mr. Davenport had to say and I would take more care in trying to get good, quality photographs. But, I didn't. So, now I am on a quest to figure it out on my own!

I found this book a while back called 'How to Photograph Your Baby.' by Nick Kelsh and it has some awesome suggestions. The three main things I learned from this book that have helped my photography skills are:

1. Get Closer! The closer you get, the better the picture. Get rid of all that ugly, cluttery background that distracts from your beautiful child! When you flip through your photo albums in the years to come you won't want to see your TV or dirty dishes, you'll want to see your children.


2. Keep Shooting! This is so easy with digital cameras! Just keep taking pictures, lots of pictures and you're bound to get a few really great photographs! (If you're like me, you'll have a hard time parting with any pictures, even the bad ones! but in theory, this is a good idea so that you can get rid of all the crappy shots and keep the best ones)

Blurry

Weird Angle

Almost got it

Good!!!

3. Turn off the Flash! Wow, you wouldn't believe what a difference this tip can make. Window light and outside light can do wonders for pictures. (There are times when you need the flash, but I'm not talking about those times, I'm talking about when there is light to be had, use it!) You can use light coming in from windows, doors, your porch or garage! Anything that gives off a nice, soft light (Remember, beware of the background!)
Experiment with this one, you'll have fun!

These were both taken using afternoon window light.

Anyway, I found these ideas to be extremely useful in my lifelong search to be a great photographer! I hope you find them useful too! If anyone else has some good suggestions, leave a comment for all to read! I would love to get some more tips!

2 comments:

Rachael said...

Holy crap she is cute. No matter what angle.

Jed and Rebecca said...

I have been inspired! Thank you. I am horrible at taking pictures, my lighting is always off. I just posted pics of the YW on our facebook group page and one of the leaders commented about the quality of the pics and possibly my lack of having the girls attention to pose for the picture. I now need a subject and some time and I am going to see if I can get a good picture. Can I borrow Brinks since I don't have any children to photograph?